Schalk Burger, who is back in the Springbok set-up for the first time since the Rugby World Cup in 2011, has been a stalwart of Springbok rugby since making his Test debut at the Rugby World Cup in 2003. He recently overcame serious injury and illness to fight his way back into Bok contention, showing that he’s lost none of the skills that made him one of the most feared loose forwards on the planet during a strong Vodacom Super Rugby campaign for the DHL Stormers. Schalk, a former IRB World Player of the Year (2004), is a versatile loose forward who can play any position in the back row. He also brings valuable leadership qualities to the squad.

Position: Flank (73) No. 8 (4)
Province: Suntory Sungoliath (Japan), previously Western Province
Springbok number: 754
Test debut: 24 September, 2003 vs Georgia in Sydney, aged 20
Total tests: 77
Tour matches: 0
Total Springbok matches: 77
Win ratio: 51-25-1
Honours: SA Rugby Player of the Year (2004 & 2011); Young SA Rugby Player of the Year nominee (2003 & 2004); IRB Player of the Year (2004).
Son of former Springbok lock, Schalk Burger Snr. He also holds the record for the most Test tries by a Springbok flanker (12). Springbok captain no. 55 in history.